Harris Holds Firm at Detroit Rally Despite Interruptions

Demonstrating a strong stance in the face of disruption, Vice President Kamala Harris, the Democratic nominee for president, retaliated swiftly against pro-Palestinian protesters who tried to sabotage her speech at a Wednesday night campaign rally in Detroit. Harris countered the protestors with a stark statement: “You know what? If you want Donald Trump to win, then say that. Otherwise, I’m speaking.” This was met with loud applause and fervent chants of “Not going back!” from Harris’ supporters.

The incident throws light on the existing differences within the Democratic party with regards to the Middle East conflict. These divisions pose a challenge for Harris in her electoral battle against former President Donald Trump, the Republican candidate.

“Kamala, Kamala, you can’t hide! We won’t vote for genocide”

The disruptive exchange took place when a section of the crowd raised their voices halfway through Harris’s speech. Nevertheless, Harris put forward her belief in democracy and the importance of every voice to counter the protestors’ attempts to interrupt her.

More Attendees at Detroit Rally

A crowd of over 15,000 people became part of the Harris rally that took place in a Detroit airport hangar. This crowd size made it the most highly attended rally in the Harris campaign thus far.

While President Joe Biden often encounters protests at his public events, Harris has seen comparatively fewer demonstrations. Harris began her campaign after Biden withdrew from the race in July.

Harris Staunch Support for Israel

Dearborn, Michigan outside of Detroit houses a considerable Arab American and Muslim population that has disapproved of the Biden administration’s support for Israel’s war against Hamas.

Despite criticisms, like Biden, Harris has continued to back Israel fervently. Yet, she also led the administration’s criticisms of Israel regarding the number of Palestinian casualties in Gaza. Harris stated last year, “Too many innocent Palestinians have been killed…Frankly, the scale of civilian suffering and the images and videos coming from Gaza are devastating.”

Quoting her statement to reporters last month, she said, “We cannot allow ourselves to become numb to the suffering, and I will not be silent.”